District of South Dakota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 2, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Eric Afrank, age 24, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Afrank was one of nine men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2017 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls or boys obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Afrank communicating with someone he believed to be a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts and requesting that the minor send pornographic images to Afrank.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Afrank was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Porcupine Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Don Williams, age 47, was sentenced on July 1, 2019, to 15 ½ years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Williams was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2018. The charge related to Williams grabbing a female victim and forcing her to his bedroom. Williams struck her in the head, causing her to lose consciousness. She awoke to Williams sexually abusing her.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Poppen and Cassandra DeCoste prosecuted the case.
Williams was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
North Dakota Man Sentenced in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Killdeer, North Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Dustin Eck, age 35, was sentenced on July 2, 2019, to 9 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charge related to Eck obtaining methamphetamine in Denver, Colorado, and selling it to individuals in South Dakota between December 2017 and March 2018. Eck was discovered to be in possession of methamphetamine after a traffic stop near Rapid City on March 8, 2018.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.
Eck was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender was sentenced on July 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jodie Brave, a/k/a Jody Brave, age 48, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Brave was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 13, 2018. He pled guilty on January 23, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on June 29, 2018, wherein Brave assaulted his domestic partner at their home in Mission. At the time of this incident, Brave had two prior convictions in Rosebud Sioux Tribal Court for Domestic Abuse, and was on federal supervised release for a prior conviction for Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Brave was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer was sentenced on July 8, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Dayvon Sanchez, age 20, was sentenced to time served through October 1, 2019 (approximately 7 months), in federal prison, 2 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Sanchez was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on April 29, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred in Mission, on November 19, 2017. On that date, Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services Officers responded to a report that Sanchez had taken a vehicle and was driving drunk. The officers subsequently located Sanchez at a residence in Mission and informed him he was under arrest. Sanchez physically resisted, and kicked one of the officers.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Sanchez was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Hot Springs Man Sentenced on Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that Hot Springs, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person and Distribution of a Controlled Substance was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Kory Moore, age 27, was sentenced on July 3, 2019, to 4 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The charges related to Moore, a previously convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, being found to knowingly be in possession of a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol during a traffic stop on June 7, 2018, at Rapid City. Additionally, earlier that day Moore obtained methamphetamine and sold it to another individual.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Safe Trails Task Force, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.
Moore was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Former Rapid City Priest Charged with Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, and Transporting Stolen MoneyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kent, Washington, man was charged in federal district court with 50 counts of Wire Fraud, nine counts of Money Laundering, and one count of Transportation of Stolen Money.
Marcin Stanislaw Garbacz, age 41, a former Rapid City priest, was charged on May 21, 2019. Garbacz appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 3, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is 20 years in federal prison and/or a $500,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $6,000 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Garbacz, while employed as a pastor with the Diocese of Rapid City, defrauding the Diocese by stealing cash donations made by parishioners for his own personal use between July 2012 and April 2018.
The charges are merely accusations and Garbacz is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Garbacz was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Arizona Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Glendale, Arizona, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on July 2, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Walter Curaba, age 49, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Curaba was one of five men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2014 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls obtained through the Internet. All five men were indicted for Commercial Sex Trafficking.
The conviction stemmed from Curaba responding to a Craigslist.com advertisement posted by Division of Criminal Investigation undercover agents, which purported to offer young girls for sex. Following several messages with a person Curaba believed to be associated with a 12-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, he proceeded to negotiate the time and place they would meet, along with the price he would pay, which was $250.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Curaba was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Swiftbird Man Sentenced for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Swiftbird, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced on July 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Raven Different Horse, age 28, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Different Horse was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 31, 2018. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on January 23, 2018, when Different Horse accused his wife of being with another man. When Different Horse’s wife denied the allegation, Different Horse became more agitated, and both physically and sexually abused his wife over a three-day period.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Different Horse was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assaulting, Resisting, and Impeding a Federal Officer.
Michael Anthony Toledo, age 39, was indicted on March 12, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 28, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 8 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on April 18, 2017, Toledo did forcibly assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, and interfere with a law enforcement officer who was employed by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services.
The charge is merely an accusation and Toledo is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Toledo was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Trevor Red Bird, age 30, was indicted on June 11, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 28, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Red Bird was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact in May 2008. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender. It is alleged that between April 7, 2019, and June 11, 2019, Red Bird, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender and update his registration.
The charge is merely an accusation and Red Bird is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Red Bird was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 27, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Loren Shon Waters, age 46, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
From May 2016 through February 2018, Waters sold and distributed 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in western South Dakota, primarily on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Nelson prosecuted the case.
Waters was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Parmelee Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Parmelee, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on July 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Mason Neck, age 28, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Neck was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2018. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred between June 2016 and August 2016, wherein Neck knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a child who was between two and three years old.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Neck was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
New Mexico Man Sentenced for Failure to Pay Child SupportRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pueblo of Acoma, New Mexico, man convicted of Failure to Pay Child Support was sentenced on July 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Joseph A. Mesteth, age 50, was sentenced to 5 years of probation, $104,160.81 in restitution, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Mesteth was indicted by a federal grand jury on December 4, 2018. He pled guilty on April 12, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from the fact that Mesteth, who was to pay child support for his minor children who live in South Dakota, failed to willfully do so.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Man Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Oglala, South Dakota, man convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Wesley Blacksmith, age 42, was sentenced on July 1, 2019, to 17 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Blacksmith was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2018. The conviction stems from Blacksmith, who is a sex offender by reason of a previous conviction for Sexual Abuse of a Minor, having a sexual relationship with a 15 year-old female in 2017 in Oglala. A child was born in January 2018 from this relationship.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs - Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Poppen prosecuted the case.
Blacksmith was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Fort Thompson Man Sentenced for Possession of a Stolen FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Fort Thompson, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Stolen Firearm was sentenced on July 1, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Jacob Hawk Wing, age 25, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $190, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Hawk Wing was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 11, 2018. He pled guilty on April 3, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on July 29, 2018, when law enforcement had heard gun shots and located Hawk Wing and Craig Ross. Hawk Wing fled the scene, but was later apprehended and ultimately admitted to stealing a rifle that law enforcement had found while searching for Hawk Wing. Based on his role in the offense, Ross plead guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced on February 19, 2019, to 26 months in federal prison.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Crow Creek Agency and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy R. Morley prosecuted the case.
Hawk Wing was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
California Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Firearms Stolen from the Rooster Sporting Good StoreRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Elk Grove, California, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Travis Jones, age 32, was sentenced on June 28, 2019, to 36 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Jones, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, trading methamphetamine for two Kahr semi-automatic pistols, which had been stolen from The Rooster in Rapid City, South Dakota, in August 2018.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the South Dakota Department of Criminal Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson prosecuted the case.
Jones was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Attorney General’s Advisory Subcommitee on Native American Issues Meets to Discuss Violent Crime in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Attorney General William P. Barr’s Advisory Subcommittee on Native American Issues (NAIS) convened during the U.S. Attorney’s National Conference in Washington, D.C., to discuss a wide range of justice issues affecting Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Trent Shores (OK-N), Chair, and U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme (MT), Vice Chair. U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons (SD), who heads the NAIS Law Enforcement Resources Working Group, was also in attendance.
“The Native American Issues Subcommittee is focused on reducing violent crime against women and children in Indian Country, including missing and murdered indigenous persons,” said U.S. Attorney Trent Shores. “I am thankful for Attorney General Barr’s leadership on these issues. He understands the law enforcement and jurisdictional challenges faced by Native Americans and Alaska Natives. We look forward to working with him and with our federal, tribal, state and local partners to find viable solutions that will improve public safety in Indian country.”
“It was an honor to be hosted in the Indian Treaty Room at the White House to work on these important issues,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The Department of Justice is committed to doing everything it can to improve public safety in Native American communities across the United States.”
On Tuesday, the NAIS met with Tara Sweeny, Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, Department of the Interior, and discussed cross-agency collaboration in order to provide more responsive and effective justice services to Indian Country. They further discussed Indian Country case investigations, case intake and tracking databases, and tribal law enforcement resource allocation. The NAIS also reviewed President Trump’s priorities for Indian Country justice. Those priorities include protecting Native American children in the Indian Health Services system, collaboration among Department of Justice, the Department of the Interior, and tribal law enforcement agencies, reducing violent crime, and providing services to help victims to overcome trauma.
On Wednesday, U.S. Attorney Shores moderated a panel titled Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women: A Crisis in Urban America & Indian Country. Panelists included Charles Addington, Director of the Office of Justice Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs; Kurt Alme, U.S. Attorney for the District of Montana; Tracy Toulou, Director of the Office of Tribal Justice; Laura Rogers, Acting Director of the Office on Violence Against Women; and Bryan Vorndran, Deputy Assistant Director of the FBI. The panel discussed the development and implementation of protocols to investigate murdered and missing indigenous persons and how to more accurately measure the scope of the problem in both urban America and Indian Country in order to develop strategies to address it.
In August, the subcommittee is scheduled to reconvene in Indian Country in New Mexico.
The NAIS consists of the approximately 53 U.S. Attorneys serving in districts that include Indian Country or one or more federally recognized tribes. The NAIS focuses exclusively on Indian Country issues, both criminal and civil, and makes policy recommendations to the Attorney General regarding public safety and legal issues that impact tribal communities.
The NAIS is the longest standing subcommittee to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee and helps develop, shape, and otherwise implement justice policies affecting Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The NAIS has identified four priority areas: 1) Violent crime 2) Law enforcement resources 3) Drug trafficking and substance abuse, and 4) White collar crime.
South Dakota Federal Prosecutor Honored with Top American Bar Association Award for Young LawyersRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS, SD – United States Attorney Ron Parsons is pleased to announce that Tamara Nash, Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Sioux Falls Office, has just been named as one of the American Bar Association’s Top 40 young lawyers as recognized by the ABA On The Rise Award.
The On The Rise Award program provides national recognition for ABA young lawyer members who exemplify a broad range of high achievement, innovation, vision, leadership, and legal and community service.
“Tamara Nash’s strength of character and dedication to the rule of law bring honor to the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons.
Tamara attended Wayne State College (Wayne, Nebraska), where she graduated magna cum laude in 2009. Immediately following college Tamara perused her life-long dream of becoming an attorney and attended the University of South Dakota School of Law, graduating with honors in 2013.
Upon completing her education, Tamara clerked for one year with the Second Judicial Circuit in Sioux Falls. While clerking, Tamara had a diverse experience in the law and had the opportunity to be mentored by several members of the judiciary.
Following clerking, Tamara achieved her career goal of becoming a prosecutor when she was hired in 2014 to serve as Deputy State’s Attorney for Union County, South Dakota. In that capacity, Tamara prosecuted misdemeanor and juvenile offenses in rural South Dakota.
In spring 2016, Tamara transitioned into her current position as a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the State of South Dakota. She represents both the federal and state arms of prosecution. Tamara works with both the Attorney General’s Office as well as the United States Attorney Office to prosecute firearm and high intensity drug cases.
Tamara maintains her commitment to public service by remaining active in the legal community. In the South Dakota State Bar, Tamara serves as President of the South Dakota State Bar Young Lawyers Section. She also serves on the State Bar Law School Committee and Committee for Diversity and Inclusion. Tamara also is active within the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. This year, Tamara serves as the Chair of the Minorities in the Profession Committee and a Liaison to the Women in the Profession Committee.
U.S. Attorney’s Guardians Project Results in Multiple Defendants Facing Federal Charges and Sentencing for Fraud, Theft, Embezzlement, and CorruptionRead the Press Release
SIOUX FALLS, SD - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced charges in the following cases, all separately noted below, that were brought pursuant to the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Guardians Project. The Project is a federal law enforcement initiative to coordinate efforts between participating agencies, to promote citizen disclosure of public corruption, fraud, and embezzlement involving federal program funds, contracts, and grants, and to hold accountable those who are responsible for adversely affecting those living in South Dakota’s Indian country communities.
The Guardians Project is another step of federal law enforcement’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination, and positive action on behalf of tribal communities. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the participating federal agencies include: Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Offices of Inspector General for the Departments of Interior, Health and Human Services, Social Security Administration, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, Justice, and Housing and Urban Development; Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Postal Inspector Service; U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General.
Five Central South Dakota Women Sentenced for Retaliating Against Witness
Tally Colombe, age 44, Fort Thompson, South Dakota was sentenced on December 19, 2018; Elnita Rank, age 82, Fort Thompson, South Dakota; Kristal Hawk, age 58, Fort Thompson, South Dakota; Ronda Hawk, age 60, Fort Thompson, South Dakota; and Tiffany Monteau, age 44, Chamberlain, South Dakota, were sentenced on February 22, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Colombe, Rank, Kristal, Ronda, and Monteau were found guilty following a jury trial on November 2, 2018.
Colombe was sentenced to 4 months in federal prison to run concurrent to her current federal sentence for wire fraud and federal program fraud, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund in the amount of $100. Rank was sentenced to 12 months supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund in the amount of $100. Kristal was sentenced to 3 months home confinement, 12 months supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund in the amount of $100. Ronda and Monteau were both sentenced to 12 months supervised release and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victim’s Fund in the amount of $100.
Between September 8, 2017, and September 12, 2017, Colombe, Rank, Kristal, Ronda, and Monteau conspired to knowingly take harmful action against a witness in an attempt to retaliate against her for providing truthful information to law enforcement relating to the commission and possible commission of a federal offense, namely program fraud and wire fraud. The retaliation included interfering with the lawful employment and livelihood of the witness when Rank, Kristal, Ronda, and Monteau forcibly removed the victim witness from her office and blocked her from performing her contracted duties.
Idaho Man Charged with Wire Fraud and Conspiracy
Calvin Pelichet, age 47 of Boise, Idaho, appeared before a magistrate judge in Idaho on May 15, 2019, and pled not guilty to an Indictment that charged him with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Wire Fraud.
According to documents filed with the Court, beginning at a time unknown but no later than on or about December 2015, and continuing through December 2016, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, All Around Sports, LLC, with others known and unknown to the United States, did conspire to commit the offense of wire fraud. By and through company representatives, including Pelichet, Kristen DeBoer, and the owner, Christopher Hoshaw, All Around Sports, LLC, willfully and unlawfully devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud and to obtain money and property from others by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises. The object of the conspiracy was to enrich AAS’ owner, managers, and employees by obtaining fraudulent funds.
On or about May 11, 2016, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Christopher A. Hoshaw and Kristen DeBoer devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the Oglala Sioux Tribe, and to obtain money and property by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
Hoshaw was released on bond pending sentencing. His sentencing date is currently set for August 12, 2019. In addition to the guilty pleas of Hoshaw and All Around Sports, LLC, Kristin DeBoer pleaded guilty for her role in the fraud scheme on July 30, 2018. DeBoer was released on bond pending sentencing. Her sentencing date is currently set for August 12, 2019.
Pelichet made his appearance in the District of South Dakota at the federal courthouse in Sioux Falls on June 26, 2019. The charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Pelichet has been detained.
Two Former Crow Creek Tribal Court Clerks Charged with Embezzlement
Kathleen Goodlow, age 68, and Christine Reed, age 41, were indicted on May 8, 2019, for Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The Indictment alleges that from August 2017 through October 2018, Goodlow and Reed embezzled and converted to their own use more than $1,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Crow Creek Tribal Court, an Indian Tribal Organization.
Goodlow recently signed a plea agreement and is expected to change her plea to guilty in the near future.
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Employee Charged with Larceny
Doris White, age 70 of Eagle Butte, South Dakota, was indicted for Larceny on May 8, 2019. White made her appearance in federal court in Pierre, South Dakota, on May 30, 2019, and she pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The Indictment alleges that between January 2005 and November 2017, White unlawfully took and carried away, with the intent to steal and purloin, the personal property of others, namely, money and funds belonging to Individual #1 and Individual #2, both known by the Grand Jury and by Defendant, of a value in excess of $1,000.
The charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
A trial is currently scheduled for July 30, 2019.
Former Secretary of Oglala Sioux Tribal Office Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement
A former Secretary of the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s Credit and Finance Office pleaded guilty to Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Helen Hernandez, age 41, entered her guilty plea in federal court in Rapid City, South Dakota, on April 5, 2019.
According to court documents, from February 2014 through June 2015, Hernandez embezzled and converted to her own use more than $1,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to the Credit and Finances Office of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, an Indian Tribal Organization. During the time of the embezzlement, Hernandez was serving as the Secretary of that office.
Hernandez’s sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for July 25, 2019.
Business Owner & Business Federally Indicted for Embezzlement from Sisseton-Wahpeton Tribal Organizations
A business owner and his business have been indicted by a federal grand jury for Embezzlement and Theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Dustin Martin Kirk, age 46 of Sisseton, South Dakota, was indicted on March 5, 2019, on two counts of embezzlement and theft from an Indian Tribal Organization. Two counts in the indictment relate to his dissolved business, Siouxland Lumber & Materials, LLC. Kirk and his business appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William D. Gerdes on June 17, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The Indictment alleges that between in or about August 2016 and December 2018, in the District of South Dakota, Dustin Martin Kirk and his business embezzled, stole, and converted more than $1,000 of monies, funds, credits, goods, assets, and other property belonging to Dakota Nation Development Corporation and the Sisseton-Wahpeton Housing Authority, both of which are entities of the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Sioux Tribe and Indian Tribal Organizations.
The charges are merely an accusation and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
A trial is currently scheduled for September 24, 2019.
New Jersey Man Charged with Wire Fraud
Mark Johnson, age 58, of Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, was indicted for Wire Fraud on March 5, 2019. Johnson made an appearance in federal court in New Jersey, on May 3, 2019. His initial appearance in federal court in South Dakota has yet to be scheduled.
The Indictment alleges that between March 2014 and July 2014, Mark Johnson, d/b/a Atlantic Power & Equipment, LLC, devised a scheme and artifice to defraud and obtain money from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises.
The charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Business Owner Indicted for Wire Fraud and Theft of Government Property
Robert Bland, age 51, of Rapid City, South Dakota, was indicted on May 21, 2019, for eighteen counts of wire fraud and one count of theft of government property. Bland, the owner of Motive Magic Mobile Windshield Repair, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 6, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Indictment alleges that between March 2011 and April 2018 Bland fraudulently billed for windshield rock chip repairs that were never done on General Services Administration vehicles.
The charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. A trial is currently scheduled for August 13, 2019.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy R. Jehangiri, Ann M. Hoffman, Benjamin Patterson, and Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the cases listed above.
For additional information about The Guardians Project, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office at (605) 330-4400. To report a suspected crime, please contact law enforcement at the federal agency’s locally listed telephone number.
“Rapid City’s Most Wanted Fugitive” Sentenced for Violent Carjacking and Discharging a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Carjacking Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence was sentenced on June 20, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Saul Crowe, age 25, was sentenced to 20 years and one month in federal prison. As to the Carjacking conviction, Crowe was sentenced to 10 years and one month in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. As to the Firearm conviction, Crowe was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, to be served consecutively to the Carjacking sentence, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
A federal grand jury indicted Crowe in January 2018 on eight felony offenses beginning in August 2016, while Crowe was on federal supervised release for a prior federal felony conviction for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
The convictions for which Crowe was sentenced relate to Crowe’s carjacking of an occupied van on October 13, 2017. Crowe held the victim at gunpoint and drove him to an isolated area north of Rapid City, where Crowe and his associates pistol-whipped and beat him. Crowe fired multiple rounds near the victim and made him beg for his life. Bullet casings from the location of the carjacking and beating were forensically matched to a weapon Crowe later abandoned in a vehicle after fleeing police. The Rapid City Police Department called Crowe “Rapid City’s most-wanted fugitive.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team; Rapid City Police Department; Pennington County Sheriff’s Office; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and the RCPD/PCSO Special Response Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn N. Rich and Heather Sazama prosecuted the case.
Crowe was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Louis Bettelyoun, age 32, was charged on June 18, 2019. Bettelyoun appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 24, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Bettelyoun, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully being in possession of a semi-automatic pistol in March 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Bettelyoun is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Bettelyoun was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Missouri Man Sentenced for Attempted Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Independence, Missouri, man convicted of Attempted Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Donald Scott Baker, age 47, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Baker was one of nine men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2017 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls or boys obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Baker communicating with someone he believed to be associated with a 15-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover agent, for the purpose of meeting the girl to engage in sexual acts. Baker also requested pornographic images of the minor be sent to himself.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Baker was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wounded Knee Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wounded Knee, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Carl Crooked Eyes, age 26, was sentenced on June 14, 2019, to 5 years in federal prison, followed by10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stems from Crooked Eyes engaging in sexual contact with a six-year-old girl between February 2011 and June 2011, at Wounded Knee.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan J. Poppen prosecuted the case.
Crooked Eyes was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
White River Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact of a ChildRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a White River, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child was sentenced on June 18, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Roger Moran, age 66, was sentenced to 186 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Moran was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 14, 2018. He pled guilty on March 21, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents that occurred between February 25, 2014, and August 23, 2018, when Moran knowingly engaged in sexual contact with a minor female with the intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, and arouse or gratify his own sexual desire.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore prosecuted the case.
Moran was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Woman Sentenced for Defrauding the Rapid City Club for BoysRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, woman convicted of Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, and Tax Evasion was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Olivia Kuehner, age 49, was sentenced on June 19, 2019, to 41 months in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. In addition, she was ordered to pay $160,380.16 in restitution to the Rapid City Club for Boys, $20,481.71 in restitution to Collins Siding, and $54,298.00 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.
The conviction stems from Kuehner, while employed as the accounting manager for the Rapid City Club for Boys, Inc. (“Club for Boys”), devising a scheme to defraud the organization between September 2012 and June 2017. Kuehner embezzled money belonging to the Club for Boys by making fraudulent payments to herself, family members, and a nominee entity she controlled, and then omitted the fraudulent payments from the Club for Boys’ accounting records, or misclassified the payments to make it appear vendors or other employees had been paid. After receiving the fraudulently obtained funds, Kuehner transferred a portion of the funds to other bank accounts she controlled in order to conceal the nature, source, and ownership of the embezzled proceeds.
Kuehner also prepared and filed a False Form W-2 with the IRS that understated her income and overstated her federal income tax withholding. Kuehner then prepared and filed a False Form 1040A which matched the False Form W-2.
In addition to her embezzlement at the Club For Boys, Kuehner also stole more than $20,000 from Collins Siding, where she was employed after she left the Club for Boys.
The investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.
Kuehner was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Jaime Walking Bull, age 38, was charged on May 21, 2019. Walking Bull appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 6, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Walking Bull, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully being in possession of a semi-automatic pistol in April 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Walking Bull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Walking Bull was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Martin Man Indicted in Theft of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Theft of Firearms, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
Sidney Marshall, age 25, was charged on April 16, 2019. Marshall appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 6, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Marshall, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, breaking into a business in Martin and stealing multiple firearms in August 2018. The charges are merely an accusation and Marshall is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Martin Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Marshall was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Iowa Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual Contact by ForceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux City, Iowa, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact by Force was sentenced on June 24, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Michael Weddell, Jr., age 29, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Weddell was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2018. He pled guilty on April 5, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from incidents between June 1, 2015, and July 10, 2015, in Wagner, South Dakota, when Weddell knowingly engaged, and attempted to engage in, sexual contact with a child who had not attained the age of 12. Weddell used force to arouse and gratify his own sexual desire.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Weddell was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Eagle Butte Man Sentenced for ArsonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Eagle Butte, South Dakota, man convicted of Arson was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Shane Taken Alive, age 28, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release. The Defendant was ordered to pay $572,506.50 in restitution to the victim of the arson, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Taken Alive was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 18, 2017. He pled guilty on March 19, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on April 12, 2017, when Taken Alive got into an argument with an individual and walked to the school in Takini, South Dakota, where he broke a window to get inside and set fire to one of the school buildings.
This case was investigated by the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller prosecuted the case.
Taken Alive was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Sturgis Man Sentenced to 17.5 years for Meth Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sturgis, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 18, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Joseph Bradshaw, age 37, was sentenced to 17.5 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He also forfeited 13 firearms collected during a search of his residence in October of 2017.
Bradshaw was indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury on October 24, 2017. He pled guilty on January 25, 2019.
Bradshaw received pounds of methamphetamine from a California supplier. The methamphetamine Bradshaw received was distributed in North Dakota and the Black Hills. Additional co-conspirators are pending sentencing and trials in Rapid City.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Bradshaw was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to over 11 Years for Meth Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 18, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Harold Brewer, Jr., age 29, was sentenced to 140 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Brewer was indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Prohibited Person in Possession of a Firearm by a federal grand jury on November 16, 2016. He pled guilty on December 21, 2018.
Brewer worked with co-conspirators in selling and distributing methamphetamine in Rapid City and on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Additional co-conspirators are pending trials in Rapid City.
Drug trafficking is an inherently violent activity. Firearms are tools of the trade for drug dealers. It is common to find drug traffickers armed with guns in order to protect their illegal drug product and cash, and enforce their illegal operations.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Badlands Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Brewer was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Deputy Attorney General Recognizes South Dakota Federal Prosecutor for Superior Performance in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Troy R. Morley of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of South Dakota was one of only 172 members of the Department of Justice nationwide recognized by Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen, and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director James Crowell, IV at the 35th Director’s Awards Ceremony in Washington D.C. on June 20, 2019.
The District of South Dakota was one of 31 districts represented at the ceremony, which was held in the Great Hall at the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building. U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons attended the ceremony with Morley.
In his prepared remarks, Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Rosen addressed the recipients and guests, saying, “Today’s honorees have earned the esteem of their colleagues. But most importantly, you have earned the gratitude of your fellow citizens — whose communities you have made safer, whose lives you have improved, and whose trust you have rewarded."
Morley was awarded the Director’s Award for Superior Performance in Indian Country. As an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa and Tribal Liaison for the District of South Dakota, Morley's outreach to tribal communities has been pivotal in strengthening the District’s ties with tribal law enforcement officers, tribal courts, tribal social service agencies, and tribal decision makers. His body of work, including both zealous prosecutions and his Tribal Liaison outreach, exemplifies the very best of the Department of Justice's efforts in Indian Country. His status as an enrolled member of a federally recognized Indian tribe enhances his ability to build bridges and promote cooperation among all levels of Federal, State, and Tribal law enforcement.
Morley joined the U.S. Attorney’s office in Pierre, South Dakota, in May of 2012, and for over five years, he prosecuted violent crimes occurring on the Standing Rock Reservation in South Dakota. In June 2017, he transitioned to similar work on the Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations. He has been an exemplary prosecutor, winning convictions and long prison sentences for murderers, child molesters, online predators, and domestic abusers.
Morley became the District's Tribal Liaison in March 2015, and in that role has had a deep and holistic impact on tribal communities throughout South Dakota. He has helped form working groups with state governments (both North Dakota and South Dakota) to implement reentry plans for individuals returning to the community after incarceration. He has worked closely with tribal officials on pilot programs to exercise special domestic violence jurisdiction. Morley also serves as a mentor in a special program he developed for the Pierre Indian Learning Center, regularly coaching students about how to succeed in life and avoid bullying behavior. Morley has been a key voice in discussions surrounding the selection of Special Assistant United States Attorneys assigned to four of the state’s nine reservations: Standing Rock, Sisseton- Wahpeton, Flandreau, and Rosebud. His partnerships have also helped identify cases leading to successful federal prosecutions. For instance, Morley’s work with a Tribal SAUSA has identified repeat domestic abusers, leading to an appreciable uptick in the prosecution of habitual domestic violence offenders harming women and children in our district.
“Troy Morley serves as a strong, dedicated, and essential Native American role model for federal prosecutors in Indian Country, the communities we serve, and the victims we seek to protect,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “I am very pleased, though certainly not surprised, that his stellar performance has been recognized with this coveted award.”
EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Bernard Young, age 58, was indicted on June 11, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 14, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Young was convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse in April 2002. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for his natural lifetime. It is alleged that between March 25, 2019, and April 24, 2019, Young, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.
The charge is merely an accusation and Young is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Young was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Rapid City Man Gets Ten Years in Federal Prison for Meth ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine was sentenced on June 14, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Mason Olson, age 22, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Olson was indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine on August 22, 2017. While on pretrial release, Olson absconded from supervision for approximately four months. He was apprehended and eventually pled guilty on February 1, 2019.
Olson received methamphetamine, which he distributed in the northern Black Hills and Rapid City areas. Olson’s conspiracy was responsible for distributing at least 1.5 kilograms, but not more than 5 kilograms, of methamphetamine between November 2015 and August 2017.
This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation and the local Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather Sazama and Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Olson was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Woman Sentenced for PerjuryRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, woman convicted of Perjury was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Margaret Lynn Ghost, age 29, was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Ghost was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 7, 2018. She pled guilty on March 8, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on June 1, 2018, when Ghost signed an affidavit in which she willfully and knowingly made a false statement.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.
Ghost was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pierre Man Sentenced to Fifty Years in Federal Prison for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, and Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of two counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, one count of Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, and four counts related to Transporting, Distributing, Receiving, and Possessing Child Pornography was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Amin Ricker, age 32, was sentenced to 420 months in federal prison for each count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, and 360 months in federal prison for the count of Travel With Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, with such sentences to be served concurrent.
Ricker was also sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for counts of transportation of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography, with such sentences to be served concurrent to each other.
One hundred eighty months of the child pornography sentences will be served consecutive to the sentences for the remaining counts, with the remaining 60 months to be served concurrent. The effect is a total combined sentence of 600 months (50 years) in federal prison. Ricker will thereafter be placed on supervised release for the rest of his life. Ricker was further ordered to pay $84,600 in restitution and to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $700.
Ricker was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 12, 2017. He was convicted of all charges on March 22, 2019, following a five-day jury trial in Pierre, South Dakota.
In late 2014 and early 2015, Ricker traveled from South Dakota to Texas on multiple occasions for the purpose of sexually abusing twin-seven-year-old girls, who resided in Texas with their mother. Ricker had become acquainted with the girls and their mother through a mutual acquaintance in late 2013 or early 2014. In January 2015, and again in March 2015, Ricker created photos and videos of the sexual abuse, which he later saved and catalogued on other media storage devices.
In December 2015, one of the girls was approached by a school counselor who had concerns that she was being abused by Ricker. Based on the girl’s disclosure, the counselor notified law enforcement. The girls’ mother was interviewed, and made statements indicating she was aware of the abuse. In subsequent interviews, however, neither girl disclosed any abuse.
In February 2017, law enforcement in Pierre, South Dakota, received a series of CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that contained information suggesting a local individual was involved in the sexual abuse of minors and the manufacture, possession, receipt, and distribution of child pornography. Further investigation revealed Ricker was utilizing Instagram, a social networking application, to engage in sexually explicit conversations and share child pornography with other users, including minors. By that time, Ricker was living in Pierre, having moved from Huron sometime in 2015.
On February 14, 2017, law enforcement agents of the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, acting on the Cybertips, executed a search warrant at the Defendant’s residence in Pierre. The agents seized multiple electronic devices and digital media storage devices from Ricker that contained thousands of images and videos of child pornography. As a result of the verdict, Ricker will forfeit ownership of the electronic devices and digital media storage devices that were seized.
The electronic devices and digital media storage devices seized from Ricker included digital media containing a folder entitled “Texas Twins 2015”, as well as folder corresponding to the girls’ names, which contained multiple images and videos of Ricker sexually abusing the girls. The file properties for these images and videos indicate they were created between November 1, 2014, and March 31, 2015. Bank records and airline records further showed Ricker traveled to Texas in January 2015, and again in March 2015, during the period the abuse images and videos were created.
“Bringing this Defendant to justice is the result of tremendous cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement officers,” said U.S. Attorney Parsons. “The federal penalties for child pornography and child sexual abuse offenses are severe for a reason, and, through his conduct, this Defendant has earned every day of the sentence he received today.”
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the South Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Huron Police Department, the Pierre Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Ranger Division, and the Bogata (TX) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirk Albertson and Cameron Cook prosecuted the case.
Ricker was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Mission Man Sentenced for Abusive Sexual ContactRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact was sentenced on June 17, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Roberto A. Lange.
Iran Small Bear, a/k/a Ivan Small Bear, age 38, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $200.
Small Bear was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 12, 2018. He pled guilty on March 18, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from conduct that occurred between July 2016 and April 2018, wherein Small Bear engaged in sexual contact with a minor female.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Small Bear was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rosebud Man Indicted for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
Jason Kimmel, Sr., age 37, was indicted on June 11, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 13, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
Kimmel was convicted of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in 2005. As a result of this conviction, he is required to register as a sex offender for his natural lifetime. It is alleged that between March 25, 2019, and April 24, 2019, Kimmel, a person required to register under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, and a sex offender by reason of conviction under Federal Law, failed to properly register as a sex offender.
The charge is merely an accusation and Kimmel is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore is prosecuting the case.
Kimmel was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Second Degree Murder following a jury trial in June 2017 was sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Marlin Iron Crow, age 46, was sentenced on June 13, 2019, to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The conviction stemmed from Iron Crow killing a man in November 2016 at Porcupine, by punching and kicking him in the head during an argument.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan J. Poppen prosecuted the case.
Iron Crow was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Wagner Man Sentenced for Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Wagner, South Dakota, man convicted of Aggravated Sexual Abuse was sentenced on June 6, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Xavier Zephier, age 26, was found guilty of Aggravated Sexual Abuse as a result of a federal jury trial in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on March 5, 2019. Zephier was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $5,100.
The conviction stemmed from an incident on October 29, 2017, when Zephier forcibly raped a woman while she was sleeping.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer D. Mammenga and Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.
Zephier was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Spring Creek Man Indicted on Assault ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Spring Creek, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury, and Assault by Strangulation and Suffocation.
Jason Corey Poorman, Sr., age 43, was indicted on May 14, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 6, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that on December 20, 2018, Poorman unlawfully assaulted an individual with shod feet with the intent to do bodily harm, and that the assault resulted in bodily injury. The Indictment further alleges that on February 9, 2019, Poorman unlawfully assaulted an intimate partner by strangling and suffocating her, and that he further assaulted her with shod feet and a log with the intent to do bodily harm.
The charges are merely accusations and Poorman is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson is prosecuting the case.
Poorman was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Sioux Falls, South Dakota, man convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance was sentenced on June 11, 2019, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
Reymundo Sauceda, age 43, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He was ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
According to court documents, beginning on or about October 1, 2013, and continuing until on or about July 26, 2016, Sauceda did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others, to knowingly and intentionally distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine.
One of Sauceda’s co-conspirators, Martin Rios, was sentenced on April 22, 2019, for the same offense by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier. Rios was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Rios was also ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Service and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Connie Larson prosecuted the case.
Sauceda was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 7, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Matthew King Adkins, age 48, was sentenced to 5 months in custody, which he had already served, 5 years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.
Adkins was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 8, 2018. He pled guilty and was detained on January 4, 2019.
The conviction stemmed from an incident between April 6, 2017, and April 21, 2017, when it was discovered that Adkins, who was residing in Rapid City at the time, knowingly possessed images of child pornography on his computer. Some of the images included prepubescent minors. The digital files were transported in interstate commerce over the internet by computer, and therefore, affected interstate or foreign commerce. Law enforcement also found on his computer stories written by Adkins referencing sexual activity between adults and children.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on June 7, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Jeremy Douglas Vance, age 37, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Vance also forfeited a 12-gauge shotgun, a Glock, and ammunition, which he acquired in connection with his drug-dealing activities.
From June 2015 through February 2017, Vance sold and distributed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in the Rapid City area.
This case was investigated by South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
Vance was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Rapid City, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person.
Jaime Walking Bull, age 38, was charged on May 21, 2019. Walking Bull appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 6, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charge relates to Walking Bull, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, unlawfully being in possession of a semi-automatic pistol in April 2019 at Rapid City. The charge is merely an accusation and Walking Bull is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Walking Bull was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Martin Man Indicted in Theft of FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Martin, South Dakota, man was charged in federal district court with Theft of Firearms, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm.
Sidney Marshall, age 25, was charged on April 16, 2019. Marshall appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on June 6, 2019, and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges relate to Marshall, a previously convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms, breaking into a business in Martin and stealing multiple firearms in August 2018. The charges are merely accusations and Marshall is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of its renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and local communities to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Martin Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson is prosecuting the case.
Marshall was detained pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Kyle Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiring to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance has been sentenced by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Derek Tyon, age 25, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Tyon was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 20, 2018, for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. He pled guilty to that charge on February 15, 2019.
During the course of the conspiracy, Tyon sold methamphetamine primarily on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Tyon coordinated with several other individuals over several years to obtain and distribute multiple pounds of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gina Nelson prosecuted the case.
Tyon was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Isabel Man Charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Child AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that an Isabel, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child, Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, and Child Abuse.
Theodore Taylor, age 34, was indicted on May 14, 2019. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on June 6, 2019, and pled not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, 5 years, up to life, of supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The Indictment alleges that between January 1, 2013, and August 31, 2016, Taylor knowingly engaged in and attempted to engage in a sexual act with a minor who had not yet attained the age of 12 years old. The Indictment further alleges that between November 16, 2014, and November 15, 2015, Taylor assaulted the same minor with a dangerous weapon, that is, a taser.
The charges are merely accusations and Taylor is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Miller is prosecuting the case.
Taylor was released on bond pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Attempted Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Denver, Colorado, man convicted of Attempted Possession of Child Pornography was sentenced on June 10, 2019, by Chief Judge Jeffrey L. Viken, U.S. District Court.
Noah Schottenstein, age 30, was sentenced to 3 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment and a $5,000 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Schottenstein was one of nine men who were arrested and federally indicted as a result of an undercover sex trafficking operation conducted during the 2016 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, targeting persons willing to pay to have sex with underage girls or boys obtained through the Internet. The conviction stemmed from Schottenstein communicating with someone he believed to be a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts. Additionally, Schottenstein requested the minor send him child pornography images of herself.
The undercover operation and arrests were a joint effort between the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rapid City Police Department, and the Pennington County Sheriff’s office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins prosecuted the case.
Schottenstein was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.